Ports of Stockholm is anticipating a significant expansion in cruise vessel arrivals and passenger traffic during the 2026 season, with published schedules indicating that approximately 157 cruise calls are set to bring more than 300 000 visitors to the Swedish capital and its associated harbour areas between January and December. This expected level of traffic represents an increase on the figures recorded in recent years and continues a trend of rising cruise activity in the Baltic Sea region.
The comprehensive list of scheduled calls shows that cruise ships will visit Stockholm ports throughout the calendar year rather than being concentrated solely in the traditional summer period, reflecting broader interest in northern European itineraries. A substantial proportion of passengers are expected to travel with cruise companies whose core markets include Germany, which remains one of the largest source regions for visitors arriving by sea.
Among the vessels due to visit in 2026 are seven making their inaugural calls at the city’s port facilities. These include expedition- and luxury-oriented tonnage such as National Geographic Endurance, Scenic Eclipse II and Seven Seas Grandeur, as well as mainstream cruise ships including Carnival Legend and Mein Schiff Relax. Additionally, the luxury line Explora Journeys is scheduled to make its first overnight visit to Stockholm with its vessel Explora III in late August, marking a new brand entry to the port’s itinerary framework.
Calls at the Port of Nynäshamn, one of the key terminals within the Stockholm port system, are also expected to reach elevated levels, with at least 21 scheduled ship visits—the highest number in several years. AIDA Cruises is projected to be the most frequent caller in the coming season, with approximately 32 calls under its summer and autumn programme.
Cruise operators and port authorities have highlighted investments in sustainability infrastructure as part of the city’s initiative to support expanded maritime tourism. This includes the installation of new shore power connections, which enable visiting cruise ships to draw electrical power from the local grid while berthed, reducing emissions and noise from onboard generators and supporting Stockholm’s wider environmental goals.